Saudi Arabia Restricts Visas for 14 Countries Until Mid-June 2025

In a significant move impacting millions of travelers, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has temporarily restricted visa issuance for citizens of 14 countries, including major nations like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Egypt. This restriction applies to all Umrah, business, and family visit visas. Travelers from these countries will need to wait until mid-June 2025 for the resumption of normal visa services, with the exception of Hajj visa procedures.

If you’re planning a trip to Saudi Arabia anytime soon, especially for religious or business purposes, here’s everything you need to know about this new visa restriction.

Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)

Which Countries Are Affected by the KSA Visa Ban in 2025?

Starting in April 2025, the Saudi government has imposed a temporary ban on visa issuance for citizens of the following countries:

• Indonesia
• Pakistan
• India
• Turkey
• Sudan
• Afghanistan
• Jordan
• Bangladesh
• Yemen
• Iran
• Egypt
• Morocco
• Syria
• Nigeria

This decision will affect travelers from all these nations who were planning to visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah, business trips, or family visits. If you are a citizen of one of these countries, you will be unable to obtain a visa to enter Saudi Arabia until the restrictions are lifted, which is expected to be after the Hajj season concludes in mid-June 2025.

Why Did Saudi Arabia Suspend Visa Services?

The decision to halt visa issuance is part of a broader effort by Saudi authorities to regulate and manage the influx of travelers, especially in relation to the Hajj pilgrimage. Over the past several years, the Saudi government has faced increasing challenges with unauthorized participation in Hajj. Many individuals entered Saudi Arabia on Umrah or business visas, only to overstay their permits and join the Hajj pilgrimage illegally. This has contributed to significant crowding issues and logistical challenges, which have threatened both the safety of pilgrims and the overall management of the Hajj season.

The 2024 Hajj pilgrimage witnessed tragic consequences when more than 1,200 pilgrims lost their lives, with heatstroke and overcrowding cited as the primary causes of death. With Saudi Arabia’s vision to ensure a safe, smooth Hajj experience, this new visa restriction is seen as an essential step toward managing crowds and minimizing such tragic events in the future.

In addition to concerns around Hajj participation, Saudi authorities are also cracking down on travelers entering the country under business or family visit visas who engage in unauthorized employment. This issue has been increasingly problematic, disrupting the country’s regulated labor market and exacerbating economic challenges. As a result, the Saudi government has opted for a temporary freeze on visa issuance to prevent misuse of these visas.

Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)

When Will KSA Visa Services Be Restored?

The temporary visa restrictions are expected to be lifted after the conclusion of the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage. The Hajj season for 2025 is scheduled to take place from June 4 to June 9, 2025, and once the pilgrimage ends, visa services will likely resume in mid-June 2025.

According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the following specific dates are important to note:

• Umrah visas will not be issued after April 13, 2025, until further notice.
• Hajj visa applications for 2025 must go through official quotas established by Saudi Arabia’s authorized Hajj program. Only approved applicants will be allowed to perform Hajj; no other visa type will be accepted for this purpose.
• Normal visa services for business, family visits, and Umrah will be reviewed after Hajj and are expected to resume by mid-June 2025.

What Should Travelers Affected by the KSA Visa Restrictions Do?

If you’re planning to visit Saudi Arabia for business, family visits, or Umrah and are affected by the restrictions, it’s important to stay informed and plan accordingly. Here are a few steps to help you navigate this situation:

1. Do NOT Attempt to Enter Illegally

It’s essential to understand that attempting to enter Saudi Arabia without the appropriate visa or overstaying on an existing visa can result in serious consequences. Unauthorized entry or overstaying can lead to significant fines, deportation, and even a 5-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia. Avoid the risk by waiting until the restrictions are lifted and applying for a valid visa once they are restored.

2. Stay Updated Via Official Channels

It’s crucial to stay informed about any changes to the visa rules. You should check the following sources for the latest updates:

• Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: Regularly check for announcements regarding the visa situation, especially as the Hajj season draws closer.
• Your local Saudi Embassy or Consulate: For country-specific information or assistance.
• Trusted media sources: Keep an eye on news outlets that report on Saudi Arabia’s travel policies.

3. Postpone or Reschedule Travel Plans

If you were planning to visit Saudi Arabia in the coming months for business, family matters, or Umrah, it’s advisable to postpone your travel plans until mid-June 2025 or later when the visa restrictions are expected to be lifted. Rescheduling your trip will ensure that you comply with the new visa requirements.

Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)

4. Hajj Applicants Must Follow Official Quotas

For those wishing to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025, it’s important to note that you must go through your country’s authorized Hajj program. Only pilgrims who are officially selected through these programs will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia for Hajj. Ensure that you apply well in advance and follow all official instructions for a smooth application process.

Conclusion: What Does This Mean for Future Travel to Saudi Arabia?

While this decision may be disruptive for many travelers, especially those planning to visit family or perform Umrah or Hajj, the measures being taken are important for the long-term safety and organization of the pilgrimage season. Saudi Arabia remains a popular destination for religious, business, and leisure purposes, and the kingdom has continually worked to improve its visa system to meet the demands of both international visitors and its own economic needs.

If you’re affected by this visa ban, take the necessary precautions to avoid complications, stay informed about the latest developments, and plan your trip accordingly. With patience and proper planning, you’ll be able to resume your travels to Saudi Arabia once the restrictions are lifted.

For business travelers or those with family connections in Saudi Arabia, the country’s regulatory measures are designed to make future visits safer and more controlled. Whether you’re looking to visit family, conduct business, or experience the beauty of Saudi Arabia, the kingdom will still be there for your future trips—just with a bit more preparation in the meantime.

Need Assistance with Travel Plans?

Whether you’re rescheduling your trip or planning a future visit, TRAVUL offers travel services to help you navigate the complexities of visa requirements and trip planning for Saudi Arabia. Contact TRAVUL today to ensure a seamless travel experience once restrictions are lifted.

Access Life-Changing Travel UPDATES on TRAVUL.org Community & Connect With Fellow Travulers: (www.travul.org/twg)